Authorities have ceased their search for six individuals missing following a devastating collision between a packed cargo ship and a bridge in Baltimore, causing the bridge to collapse and obstructing one of the busiest commercial harbors in the US.

US Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath announced the suspension of search efforts, citing harsh water conditions and low temperatures, with grim prospects for finding survivors. The missing individuals were part of a nighttime construction crew repairing potholes on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when the disaster occurred.

Maryland's Secretary of State Police, Roland Butler, indicated a transition from search and rescue to recovery operations due to challenges posed by water temperatures and currents hindering underwater efforts, with boats continuing patrols overnight.

Video footage captured the cargo ship colliding with a bridge support, causing the steel structure, built in 1977, to collapse dramatically. Quick action by authorities prevented further casualties by halting traffic on the bridge after the ship issued a mayday call, with officials emphasizing no indication of terrorism and focusing on providing closure for the victims' families amidst this tragic event.